As flu season approaches, JFK Memorial Hospital has been closely monitoring information regarding 2009 H1N1 immunization development in the United States, as we take the health and safety of our community, patients and employees very seriously. For an update on the various clinical trials that are currently underway for 2009 H1N1 Influenza, we direct you to the CDC page in blue below.

We have stringent processes in place to manage and contain the situation if 2009 H1N1 flu were to be identified in Coachella Valley. If you would like more information about 2009 H1N1 flu, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/index.htm. The CDC’s site includes key facts, number and location of confirmed cases and symptoms.

The CDC also lists recommended everyday actions to help people stay healthy:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

• Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.

• If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

The best thing to remember is to wash your hands frequently. If you are sick, please use "cough etiquette" and cover your cough.

Please remember, if you are feeling ill, stay at home and call your healthcare provider to monitor your situation. Most people recover at home without seeking treatment. You should see you doctor if you experience the following symptoms: